4-H youth shine: multi-county public speaking
•March 25, 2026•
Pictured left to right are Moultrie-Douglas 4-H speech competition participants Jenna Welsh, Sophia Horst, Connor Swango, and University of Illinois Communications Professor and competition Judge, Laura Stengrim.
Confidence took center stage as youth from Cumberland, Douglas, and Moultrie counties gathered for the Multi-County 4-H Public Speaking Contest, held at the Sarah Bush Lincoln Education Center on Saturday, March 21st. Three outstanding Moultrie-Douglas youth stepped up to the microphone, showcasing their communication skills, creativity, and courage.
Moultrie-Douglas participants included Jenna Welsh, member of the Arthur Prairie Dogs 4-H Club, Connor Swango, member of the Arcola Purple Ribbon Riders 4-H Club, and Sophia Horst, member of the Moultrie-Douglas Emerging Leaders 4-H Club. Each participant demonstrated poise and strong presentation abilities in their respective categories. Jenna Welsh earned Champion in Illustrated Beginner Speech, with Connor Swango receiving Reserve Champion in the same category. In the advanced division, Sophia Horst was named Champion in Illustrated Speech Advanced.